Trades will play important role in clean energy transformation
On Jan. 26, we welcomed Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to the Wisconsin Regional Training Partnership/ BIG STEP program. At the event, she announced the expansion and modernization of the training facility, with $1.5 million in federal funds. As President of the Milwaukee Building & Construction Trades Council, I am deeply committed to ensuring that our workforce is equipped to meet the evolving needs of our economy. It is clear that we are not just celebrating the present; we are envisioning a future where Wisconsin stands as a beacon of innovation and opportunity in the clean energy sector.
The passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has laid the foundation for Wisconsin to emerge as a solar and electric vehicle manufacturing powerhouse. Across the state, we are already witnessing the tangible impacts of this legislation. Climate and clean energy projects have spurred $445 million in investment and created or moved forward more than 500 good-paying clean energy jobs. These are not just numbers; they represent real opportunities for individuals and families across our state.
Since the IRA’s passage, Wisconsin has seen the announcement or advancement of nine new clean energy projects spanning five sectors: solar, batteries, wind, electric vehicles, and other clean technologies. These projects are not only driving economic growth but also contributing to our state’s efforts to combat climate change and reduce pollution.
What’s particularly exciting is the impact of these initiatives in Wisconsin’s rural communities. Companies have announced $345 million in investment and the creation of good-paying clean energy jobs in these areas. This underscores the IRA’s potential to uplift all communities, including those that have historically been overlooked.
As we celebrate these milestones, we must also recognize the critical role of skilled labor in driving the clean energy transition. Programs like the Wisconsin Regional Training Partnership/ BIG STEP are instrumental in equipping workers with the skills they need to thrive in this rapidly evolving industry. By investing in training and apprenticeship programs, we are not just preparing individuals for jobs; we are building the foundation for a sustainable future.
The IRA will continue to accelerate the clean energy jobs boom in Wisconsin while simultaneously lowering energy costs for families, investing in disadvantaged communities, and reducing climate pollution statewide. This is not just about economic growth; it’s about building a more resilient and equitable future for all Wisconsinites.
Daniel Bukiewicz, president of the Milwaukee Building & Construction Trades Council